Indigenous Studies, M.A.

Admission

The Indigenous Studies M.A. program is an interdisciplinary program focusing on Indigenous people and communities. Students admitted to the M.A. program will complete 2 terms of coursework and have the option of either completing a Major Research Paper (MRP), or a Community-Based Research Project (CRP). In consultation with their supervisors, M.A. students must choose which option to pursue by October 15 of the first term of the program. Admission to the Indigenous Studies M.A. degree program requires an average of B+ or better in an undergraduate Honours Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

Degree Requirements

Students will have two options for completing an M.A in Indigenous Studies.

A. Course Work and Major Research Paper Option (MRP) (12 months)

Students will be required to complete the following: 3 core courses; 3 elective courses, one of which must be an Indigenous Studies course; one non-credit Professional development course; and a Major Research Paper:

INDIGST 702 Indigenous Studies Research Methods, INDIGST 701 Theories in Critical Indigenous Studies, and INDIGST 704 Indigenous Studies Experiential Learning
In addition to these required courses, students will need to complete 3 elective courses. At least one of these courses must be an Indigenous Studies course.
Students will also complete one non-credit course, INDIGST 725 Professional Development
Students will complete a major research paper (MRP) of 7,500-8,500 words, excluding references. The research paper will be read by the supervisor and another faculty member. If the supervisor is an associate member, then the second reader must be a core faculty member selected by the supervisor in consultation with the student. Students will complete and submit their MRP for approval by their supervisor and the second reader by August of the first year.

B. Course Work and Community-Based Research Project Option (CRP) (16 months)

INDIGST 702 Indigenous Studies Research Methods, INDIGST 701 Theories in Critical Indigenous Studies, and INDIGST 704 Indigenous Studies Experiential Learning
In addition to these required courses, students will need to complete 3 electives. At least one of these courses must be an Indigenous Studies course.
Students will also complete one non-credit course, INDIGST 725 Professional Development
With the Community-Based Research Project (CRP), students will work with a community and/or community organization to conduct a research project that involves original and independent research (approximately 10,000-12,500 words excluding references). Students will work with their supervisor to have a research proposal complete and approved by December 1 of their first term. Students must select a committee member from the Indigenous Studies faculty complement or an approved associate member. Students will present their findings during the Indigenous Studies Graduate Student Symposium.